Question 1

When should I submit my fingerprints if I am applying for a license?

Accepted Answer

We suggest that you submit your fingerprints using a Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) approved Livescan provider at least 5 days prior to submitting your application for licensure. This will allow sufficient time for FDLE to process your fingerprints and submit the results to the Department. If your fingerprint results are not received by the Department at the time your application is being processed, your application will be deemed incomplete.

Question 2

How do I find a Livescan vendor to submit my fingerprints to the department?

Accepted Answer

The Department of Business and Professional Regulation accepts electronic fingerprinting service offered by Livescan device vendors approved by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Provide accurate demographic information at the time your fingerprints are taken, clearly identify the profession for which you are seeking to be licensed (or select 'Temporary License for Military Spouse'), and provide the correct ORI number.

Question 3

Where do I get the ORI number to submit to the vendor?

Accepted Answer

The ORI number identifies the profession and the agency responsible for processing your request. Common ORIs: Real Estate Sales & Brokers – FL920010Z · Real Estate Appraisers – FL922050Z · Construction – FL923400Z · Athlete Agents – FL922040Z · Employee Leasing – FL921880Z · Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco – FL920150Z · Home Inspectors – FL924250Z · Mold Remediation/Assessment – FL924260Z · Temporary License for Military Spouse – FL924270Z · Drugs, Devices & Cosmetics – FL924780Z · Florida Condominiums, Timeshares & Mobile Homes – FL921900Z · Pari-Mutuel Wagering – FL920630Z · Pari-Mutuel Slots – FL923230Z. FDLE only retains criminal results for 6 months from the roll date, so submit applications soon after fingerprinting.

Question 4

How does the electronic fingerprinting process actually work?

Accepted Answer

In the traditional method, ink is applied to your fingers which are then rolled across a fingerprint card. With electronic fingerprinting there is no ink or card — your fingerprints are rolled across a glass plate and scanned. It's faster and cleaner, reduces illegible prints, and shortens the overall application processing time.

Question 5

How long will it take to have my fingerprints scanned?

Accepted Answer

It should only take approximately 5–10 minutes.

Question 6

How much does electronic fingerprinting cost?

Accepted Answer

The total fee varies by vendor — please contact us for a current quote. Fingerprint results are usually received by the department two to four days after your fingerprints are scanned.

Question 7

What do I need to bring with me to the fingerprinting site?

Accepted Answer

Two (2) forms of identification. One must include your photograph and signature (driver's license, state ID card, or passport). Applicants cannot be fingerprinted without proper identification.

Question 8

I received a deficiency letter regarding my fingerprints. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

As of the date of the deficiency letter, your electronic fingerprinting results have not been transmitted to DBPR. Contact your fingerprint vendor to confirm the prints were submitted to FDLE for processing.

Question 9

What if DBPR/FBI determined my prints were illegible?

Accepted Answer

You'll receive a notification letter asking you to return to the same vendor for a re-roll. Bring the notification letter — the TCN (Transaction Control Number) and TCR (Transaction Control Reference) must be identified and used at the reroll.

Question 10

How long are my fingerprints valid?

Accepted Answer

DBPR retains print results for 12 months from the date FDLE received them electronically; FDLE retains prints for only 180 days. If your prints have expired at the time your application is submitted, new prints will be required.

Question 11

Can I use my recent prints to apply for another professional license?

Accepted Answer

Per FBI regulation, prints cannot be shared between professions or with other agencies. Separate prints are required for each license, using the correct ORI.

Question 12

What assistance can DBPR provide with a Livescan vendor?

Accepted Answer

You choose an FDLE-approved vendor and are responsible for ensuring the prints are timely submitted to FDLE. DBPR retrieves the results via a secure web system. We recommend keeping a receipt showing payment and date.

Question 13

If I live out of state, how do I submit my fingerprints without traveling to Florida?

Accepted Answer

Choose an FDLE Livescan vendor certified as 'hard card scanning capable' — they can process fingerprints from hard copy cards. If you need a card, call DBPR at 850.487.1395 and specify the profession you're applying for.

Question 14

What happens after I get my fingerprints done using a Livescan vendor?

Accepted Answer

The Livescan vendor sends your scanned images to FDLE using the ORI number you provide. FDLE/FBI process the fingerprints and provide the results to DBPR, usually within three to five business days. You don't need to do anything unless the department contacts you for more information.

Question 15

How can I check the status of my Livescan transaction?

Accepted Answer

Use the FDLE Civil Workflow Control System Transaction Status Search at https://web.fdle.state.fl.us/search/app/tcnlookup — the only identifier needed is your Transaction Control Number (TCN), generated at the time your prints are captured.

Question 16

What happens if the fingerprint results show a criminal history?

Accepted Answer

Your application will be reviewed to ensure your history does not statutorily disqualify you. Depending on the offense(s), your application may require board review or personal appearance before the board — you'll be notified in writing of any required appearance.

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